Heaven gained a vibrant, kind-hearted, and selfless couple last week.
Patricia Bishop, 79, and Aloysius Bishop, 82, a husband and wife married 57 years, passed away side by side, within nine hours of each other on July 4th & 5th 2021. Pat and Al were able to spend their final days together at the home they built on beautiful Spider Lake, while courageously battling different terminal illnesses.
In Flint, Michigan, Patricia was born on January 19, 1942, to the late James and Frances (Haley) O'Hara. As a young woman, Pat worked for the American Red Cross, starting her career as a lifeguard and swimming instructor. She then continued her love of service by becoming a paraprofessional with the Flushing Community schools. Later in life, she went back to the Red Cross and worked in the blood services department in Flint. After the family moved to Northern Michigan, Pat continued her career in Traverse City as the Director of Community Blood Services, retiring in 1997.
Pat also volunteered for many organizations, including the President of the St. Francis altar society, President of the Elks Daisy Girls, member of the Rotary Club of Traverse City, volunteering for the NCF, and treasurer of the Spider Lake Association for ten years.
Aloysius was born on January 21, 1939, to the late Herbert and Anna (Voller) Bishop in Montrose, MI. Al served in the United States Air Force. He played on the football, baseball, and basketball teams while in the service. After returning home, Al attended Central Michigan University and played football. "Fire Up Chips!" He was a part of the 1962 CMU championship team, proudly wearing #82.
Al was a successful business owner in Flint for many years. He always made time for his family. He loved watching his children and grandchildren participate in sports as their biggest fan. He also loved to play golf and go to the Saturday morning breakfast club with his buddies. Al had a wonderful sense of humor. He made the world's best chicken noodle soup.
Al said, many times over, that the greatest day of his life was when he met his beautiful wife, Pat.
Al and Pat are survived by their daughters, Barbara Mahon and her children Samantha and Joey, Kathleen Bussell and her children Katie (Connor) Parcell, Bridget (Brandon) and Haley (fiancé Cody Goodreau) and Bridget (Doug) McMillan their children Jimmy, Duncan, and Shannon.
They are preceded in death by grandson Cody Mahon, Al's brother Jerry Bishop and Pat's brother James T. O'Hara.
One of Patricia and Al's favorite activities together was volunteering for the Pittsburg Pirates during spring training. They did this for 17 years. Patricia served on the board for 8 of those years.
Their love story was beautiful.
Many loved them and they will be greatly missed.
On Friday, August 6, 2021, a visitation will occur at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Hours are from 5-7 pm, with a remembrance service from 6:30 pm until 7:00 pm. A Memorial Mass to celebrate their lives will occur at St. Francis Catholic Church on Saturday, August 7, 2021, at 10:00 am. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am at the church until the time of service, with a luncheon to follow. Pat & Al always loved an opportunity to join family & friends and share a great meal.
Those wishing an expression of sympathy may choose to contribute in Al and Pat's honor to the Patricia & Aloysius Bishop Memorial Fund.
Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your memories of this beautiful couple with the family.